Ladakh Ecological Development Group

The organisation focuses on Ladakh's unique challenges by implementing appropriate technology solutions, like solar and hydroelectric power, to meet the region's essential energy needs. It promotes decentralized energy and water supply models, aligning with the local context. Additionally, the organisation conducts projects for sustainable electricity, clean water access, and income improvement in remote areas. It also explores innovative solutions like solar-powered flour mills and greenhouse climate control systems to adapt to changing conditions while preserving traditions.

LEDeG in its pursuit of promoting sustainable agriculture in Ladakh, acknowledges the region's unique farming practices rooted in self-sufficiency. Facing challenges like a short growing season and dependence on food imports, it seeks to revitalize agriculture. By diversifying crops, introducing high-yield varieties, and encouraging the adoption of efficient agricultural technologies, LEDeG aims to enhance production. Special attention is given to the horticultural sector, organic farming, and seed production. The organisation disseminates technical agricultural knowledge through training and workshops. Additionally, LEDeG engages in projects to improve living conditions in disadvantaged areas, promote apricot-based livelihoods, manage groundwater sustainably, and enhance fruit processing. It also advocates for organic manure use and the conversion of agricultural waste into biomass, fostering eco-friendly practices among farmers through initiatives like compost pits.

LEDeG focuses on preserving Ladakh's unique culture and traditions through handicraft intervention. It collaborates with Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in remote areas, offering marketing support and training in new designs and technologies. LEDeG buys back handicrafts from SHGs and markets them, emphasizing woollen and Pashmina items. Its goal is to sustain cultural heritage, provide livelihoods, and strengthen community-based institutions.

LEDeG has established a Rural Building Center in Ladakh, aimed at promoting cost-effective and environmentally friendly building technologies. The organisation received support from HUDCO, GOI, and LAHDC Leh to set up this centre. While initially, it was integrated into the solar township plan, which didn't materialize, the centre started producing materials like concrete blocks and stabilized mud blocks. LEDeG marketed these materials to builders, including Government contractors. The centre's technologies were also used in constructing a 100 KW solar powerhouse in Tangtse. Additionally, LEDeG has been involved in various renewable energy projects, such as solar photovoltaic power plants, solar cookers, passive solar housing, and capacity building for renewable energy development. It offers sustainable building consultancy and provides compressed mud bricks and concrete bricks, contributing to the development of eco-friendly construction practices in Ladakh.